Toronto FC announced today that the club has acquired Argentine midfielder Franco Ibarra on a season-long loan from Atlanta United FC in exchange for $50,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) for the 2023 MLS season, with Atlanta United retaining the player’s rights following the conclusion of the loan. Ibarra will occupy a U-22 Initiative Player roster spot for Toronto FC.

“Franco is a bright talent who will provide us with both quality and steel in our midfield,” said Toronto FC General Manager Jason Hernandez. “He is a warrior, a top young professional, and we are excited to have the opportunity to work with Franco for the remainder of the 2023 season.”

Ibarra, 22, signed with Atlanta United as a U-22 initiative player on February 22, 2021 and made 59 appearances across all competitions (MLS regular season, U.S. Open Cup and Concacaf Champions League). The defensive midfielder was originally acquired from Argentinos Juniors (Primera División, Argentina) where he made 11 appearances prior to his move to MLS. He began his career in 2010 at Argentinos Junior and progressed through the youth system before making the jump to the First Team. He made his professional debut against Estudiantes de la Plata in December 2019.

TRANSACTION: Toronto FC acquires Argentine midfielder Franco Gabriel Ibarra on loan from Atlanta United FC for the remainder of the 2023 MLS season in exchange for $50,000 in 2023 GAM, announced on July 10, 2023. Atlanta United FC retains the player’s rights following the conclusion of the loan. Ibarra will occupy a U-22 Initiative Player roster spot for Toronto FC.